FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                            December 16, 2005

HONOLULU ZOO CELEBRATES "CHRISTMAS WITH THE ANIMALS"

            This Sunday, December 18^th, the Honolulu Zoo will celebrate its annual "Christmas with the Animals."

            Zoo staff and volunteers wrap presents for the animals and do some decorating of the exhibits to create a festive holiday atmosphere. 

            "Christmas with the animals has grown to become quite a popular event," said Honolulu Zoo Director Ken Redman, "both with our visitors and with our animals."

            Most of the animals' presents are food treats, but there are some toys thrown in for good measure.  In years past, for instance, chimps and other animals have received soccer balls, Frisbees, socks, oven mitts, even books and t-shirts. 

            "Christmas with the Animals" runs from 9:30 in the morning until about 2:00 in the afternoon.  The celebration begins with the chmpanzees and moves on to the tigers, the primate islands, the elephants, Rusti the Orangutan, and concludes along parrot row.

For more information, call Ken Redman, Director, Honolulu Zoo, at 971-7177.

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The Honolulu Zoo is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).  Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things.  With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitat.  For more information, visit www.aza.org.